Pakistan slashes duty on betel imports

Colombo: Pakistan has slashed customs duty on betel imports from Sri Lanka to 20 per cent. This follows the signing of a bi-lateral trade agreement between the two countries during Export Development and International Trade Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris' recent visit to Pakistan, said Export Agriculture Development Director Dr. Mahanama Ilangasinghe.

Ilangasinghe said the agreement was signed after successful discussions Prof. Peiris had with Pakistan Trade Minister. This reduction of duty is the biggest duty concession given by Pakistan to any betel exporting country in the world.

This would enable betel exporters to obtain a better price for their product in the international market. Sri Lanka exports 3,000 metric tons of betel annually. This may grow further, with the latest duty concession.